Charleroi eyes perfect win while transfer window stays open

Charleroi can extend its impressive start by securing a perfect 12‑out‑of‑12 victory against Courtrai, yet manager Mario Kohnen warns the club’s transfer window is not yet closed, with at least one or two moves still possible as the side seeks a new right‑back.

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Courtrai clash tests Charleroi’s momentum

Mario Kohnen will return tomorrow to the Stade des Eperons d’Or, a venue he knows from his brief spell as assistant at the start of the 2023/24 season. He expects a tightly contested match, warning that Courtrai is very strong in transitions.

He told Le Soir, “I expect a closed match. Courtrai is very strong in transitions.” Kohnen added, “We have shown we like possession and being dominant, and that will not change, but we must be very attentive to transitions.”

Kohnen was the T2 for Edward Still on the bench at Courtrai, having previously worked together at Eupen before moving to the Kerels. After nine years at the Pandas, Kohnen left Courtrai after less than three months, at the same time as his T1.

Maintaining the league lead

Charleroi can maintain its place at the top of the table with a potential 12‑out‑of‑12 result against Courtrai. A perfect win would extend their excellent start to the season.

Transfer window remains open

The club has already received more than €16 million following the departure of Parfait Guiagon to Al‑Taawoun. Only the permanent signing of Kevin Van den Kerkhof, a starter, has arrived, leaving the rest of the squad unchanged.

Kohnen says the priority is to recruit a right‑back after Zan Rogelj’s definitive move to Wisła Płock eliminated alternatives to Van den Kerkhof. Sporting aims at Steeve Kango, a Lyon prospect seeking more playing time, while a winger could also be signed depending on market opportunities.

He insists he will never ask for transfers, stating, “You will never hear me say I want something or request transfers, because it is not my responsibility.” He adds, “I also do not want anyone from the board telling me how to coach or play; that is my responsibility.”

The juxtaposition of a possible flawless victory at Courtrai and the still‑open transfer market highlights Charleroi’s dual challenge of preserving momentum while reinforcing the squad. Kohnen’s confidence that one or two more moves may still occur suggests the club will continue to act before the window closes.